Gender-Inclusive Housing
At WSU, students have the opportunity to live in Gender-Inclusive Housing (GIH), a community built around people regardless of their sex, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation.
This housing option addresses the diverse needs of our students and promotes a welcoming, inclusive, safe and engaging environment. This is the Department Housing and Residential Life mission, and our team is proud to create a welcoming home for all students.
What is Gender-Inclusive Housing?
Gender-Inclusive Housing is an option for students who would feel more comfortable living in a single room with a community restroom and shower that is designated as gender neutral.
The gender-neutral restroom is shared by all students in the community regardless of gender identity, expression, sex or sexual orientation.
Gender-Inclusive Housing is not the same as co-ed housing.
In co-ed housing, students of different gender identities live in nearby rooms while maintaining separate bathroom facilities. Co-ed housing is available in other residence halls.
Where is Gender-Inclusive Housing located?
Gender-Inclusive Housing is located on designated floors in Conway Hall. All rooms are single occupancy (no doubles, no roommates) and share community-style restroom facilities.
All community lounges, kitchens and laundry areas are shared by residents of Gender-Inclusive Housing, as well as other students living in Conway Hall.
Learn more about Conway Hall, including dimensions and layouts of rooms.
How do I join GIH?
You can tell us you are interested in GIH on your Housing application. Students who choose to live in this community must agree to the following:
- I understand that Gender Inclusive Housing is defined as a housing office where students of any sex, gender identity, gender expressions and/or sexual orientation share common spaces, including bathroom and lounges.
- I will be responsible for upholding the standards of the community, which are in congruence with the core values of valuing and respecting all people.
- I understand that if I exhibit behavior contrary to the values and understanding in this agreement, I may be removed from this environment.
- I commit to promoting a welcome and inclusive environment and encourage others to do so as well.
You'll also have to answer these two questions on the housing application:
- Why would you like to live in Gender Inclusive Housing?
- What would you contribute to this community?
Your Housing Application will be reviewed by Housing & Residence Life staff members. If you are selected, you'll be contacted to choose a room in the community.
While it's our goal to give a room to every student who requests to join GIH, this community is filled on a rolling basis. We encourage you to complete your Housing Application in a timely manner to ensure that you can receive a space in the GIH community.
Where can I find additional support, resources or information?
Here are some campus and community resources that you might find helpful:
- KEAP Center
- LGBTQ+ Advisor: email Tyler at Tyler.Treptow-Bowman@winona.edu
- Inclusive Student Organizations
- Community Resources
- The Center: 7 Rivers LGBTQ Connection